Kolkata Coldwave Music Festival Electrifies South Kolkata with a Night of Distortion and Rhyme
On the evening of January 30, a south Kolkata club came alive with an unforgettable blend of distortion, rhyme, memory, and adrenaline as the Kolkata Coldwave Music Festival made its much-anticipated return this year. The event, which drew over 300 passionate music lovers, transformed the venue into an electric atmosphere, marking a significant moment in the city's underground music scene.
Opening Acts Set the Stage for Headbanging Catharsis
The festival kicked off with a powerful performance by the metal band Slok, who delivered their first full-length concert of the evening. With thunderous riffs and pounding drums, they turned the crowd's anticipation into a headbanging catharsis, setting a high-energy tone for the night. Following this, the stage was stormed by Aste Ladies, a dynamic group frontlined by Rialan and MC Disha alongside Cizzy, captivating the audience with their unique sound.
Female Voices Take Center Stage in Bangla Hip-Hop
MC Disha of Aste Ladies shared her heartfelt perspective on the event, stating, "Last night, the spotlight was on female voices in Bangla hip-hop and it felt personal." Rialan, the rapper from the same band, added, "The show was proof of the hard work, planning, and belief it takes to create space for ourselves." Their performances underscored the festival's commitment to showcasing diverse talents and empowering women in the music industry.
A Tribute to Late Drummers and a Full-Circle Moment
The festival was dedicated to the memory of drummers Rohit Nandi and Ritoban Das, adding a poignant layer to the celebrations. For many artists, this event represented a full-circle moment, particularly with the return of Insomnia after 16 years. Bodhisattwa Ghosh, lead guitarist, composer, and music producer of Insomnia, expressed, "Our performance as a band after 16 years today was dedicated to drummer Rohit Nandi." Other acts introduced brand-new talents, further enriching the musical experience.
Organizer's Vision for Honest and Original Music
Gaurab 'Gaboo' Chatterjee, the musician and organizer behind the festival, highlighted his curatorial approach, saying, "I curate fests like this in the city to create opportunities and space for honest, original music by artistes I admire." His efforts have been instrumental in fostering a supportive environment for emerging and established musicians alike, making events like this a cornerstone of Kolkata's cultural landscape.
Notable Attendees and Lasting Impact
The festival also attracted notable figures such as filmmaker Qaushiq 'Q' Mukherjee, who attended to witness the vibrant performances. With Slok delivering a live set that resonated deeply with the crowd, the Kolkata Coldwave Music Festival proved to be more than just a concert—it was a celebration of community, creativity, and resilience in the face of challenges.
